If you
have never hired a disc jockey before, you will most likely find that prices
for a DJ vary greatly. In 1999, Modern Bride did a national survey of
brides AFTER the wedding. They found that the average budget for a wedding
in the United States was approximately $19,500. The Modern Bride's survey
went on to ask two very important questions, that compared the most important
factor that contributed to the success of the reception with the costs associated
in the budget for reception as a whole (see illustration).

Most bridal consultants and publications that focus on budgeting suggest that
you allocate 10-15% of your total wedding budget for the entertainment.
This means that if you are spending $10,000 on your wedding, you should allow
$500-$2000 for the reception entertainment. If you are spending $20,000,
$2,000-$3000 is suggested for the reception entertainment. In the survey
listed below, most brides allocated closer to 4% for entertainment, but freely
admitted that the most important factor that contributed to the success of
the reception was the entertainment.

So what conclusion should you draw from this information? If you look
at the results of the survey, the amount of money allocated in the budget
for the entertainment was a very small amount compared to the rest of the
reception expenditures. When determining how much to budget for the reception
entertainment, we think it is important to evaluate your priorities, and answer
one important question: "Is it worth it to attempt to save $100, $200,
or even $500 on the cost of entertainment, when clearly, this is the most
important factor that contributes to the success of the reception"? Only you can answer this question.

When you begin to call entertainers to inquire about their services, it is
important to note that, generally speaking, the more experienced Emcees will
be a little more expensive. In our region of the country, the cost for
entertainment varies by a significant margin. It can become confusing
for the consumer to determine which entertainment company can best suit their
needs. It is up to you to evaluate your priorities, research
the options you have available and select the entertainment company that will
make your reception a success.

Interestingweddingstatistics:
AFTER THE VOWS

72% of all brides say they would have spent more time choosing their reception
entertainment.

Almost 100% say they would have spent more of their budget on the entertainment.

During wedding planning, Brides say their highest priority is their attire,
followed by the reception site and caterer - reception entertainment is among
the least of their priorities. Within one week after their reception, 78%
of Brides say they would have made the entertainment their highest priority!

When asked 81% of guests say the thing they remember most about a wedding
is the entertainment.

65% of all couples that chose a band to entertain at their wedding, said,
if they had it to do over again, they would have chosen a disc jockey.